The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. These include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.
